World-famous special armed force 40% under-manned

THE UK’s special forces, which are expected to play a critical role in any US-led invasion of Iraq, are suffering from a recruitment crisis.

European Voice

1/15/03, 5:00 PM CET

Updated 4/12/14, 8:35 AM CET

Manning levels in the Special Air Service (SAS) are 40% below strength, according to insiders. During recent undercover operations in Afghanistan, the regiment had to mobilise its part-time reservists.

The call-up was kept secret at the time.

“We’re facing a second Gulf War and we’re under pressure,” admitted one SAS officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity. “We’re operating at only 60% of our proper levels, but we’re barred from advertising.”

Selection for the elite unit is extremely rigorous and nine out of ten entrants fail to meet the required standard.

The SAS, whose chain of command goes directly to UK premier Tony Blair, became world-famous after one of its squads rescued 28 hostages during a siege at the Iranian Embassy in London in 1980. It also played a significant role in the 1991 Gulf War, but its image has been dented in recent years following the publication of several books by former members detailing the unit’s methods and missions.

Despite its manning crisis, the SAS is expected to play a key role in the fledgling EU Rapid Reaction Force, which is due to undertake its first mission in Macedonia in the next few weeks.